Vacationers right now are offered with more booking options than ever before. Online journey companies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com dominate the search outcomes, providing offers and comparisons throughout hundreds of properties. Nevertheless, a rising number of seasoned travelers are selecting to book directly with hotels. Why? Because direct booking can provide distinctive advantages that third-party platforms simply can’t match.
Higher Rates and Perks
One of the biggest misconceptions in the travel world is that OTAs always offer the bottom prices. While they often advertise exclusive deals, many hotels guarantee the best rate on their own websites. Some even offer value matching or reductions for guests who book directly.
Beyond price, booking directly often comes with added perks. These would possibly embrace free breakfast, room upgrades, early check-in, late check-out, or complimentary parking and Wi-Fi. These extras can significantly enhance your keep and are normally reserved for direct bookers or loyalty members.
Greater Flexibility
Another key advantage of direct booking is flexibility. Most hotels provide more generous cancellation and modification policies once you book through their site. With OTAs, modifications will be more sophisticated and typically incur higher fees, particularly if the booking is part of a non-refundable promotion.
Direct communication with the hotel additionally makes it easier to customize your stay. Want a crib in the room? Desire a specific floor or view? These requests are more likely to be accommodated when the hotel can work with you directly reasonably than through a third-party portal.
Loyalty Rewards and Unique Provides
In the event you’re a frequent traveler, becoming a member of a hotel’s loyalty program may be very rewarding. Points earned from direct bookings could be redeemed at no cost nights, upgrades, or different benefits. Most chains—reminiscent of Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards—only award points for direct reservations.
Hotels also tend to promote their greatest provides directly on their websites or by way of electronic mail to subscribers. These unique packages might embody seasonal discounts, bonus nights, or dining credits that aren’t available through OTAs.
Better Customer Service
Once you book through a third-party site and something goes improper—akin to overbooking or a cancellation—it will be harder to resolve the problem quickly. Hotels often have limited ability to make changes or challenge refunds for OTA bookings, that means you’ll have to go through the third party’s customer support, which can delay solutions.
Booking directly gives you a direct line of communication with the hotel staff. If any problems arise, it’s simpler and faster to discover a resolution. Hotels typically prioritize guests who book with them over those that come through OTAs when it involves upgrades and problem resolution.
When OTAs Might Be Helpful
That said, OTAs do offer benefits in specific situations. They’re excellent tools for evaluating costs, locations, and amenities across a number of properties at once. Some additionally bundle deals with flights or automotive leases for added savings. In case you’re booking a trip on short discover or exploring unfamiliar destinations, OTAs can provide helpful consumer evaluations and ratings that simplify the choice process.
In rare cases, third-party platforms may need access to particular rates during high-demand durations or provide loyalty points through their own programs, akin to Expedia Rewards. Nevertheless, it’s always value checking the hotel’s direct website earlier than making a final decision.
The Backside Line
Booking directly with hotels often leads to raised service, added perks, and more flexible terms. While OTAs could be useful for comparison and planning, savvy travelers more and more turn to direct booking for a more reliable and personalized experience. Before locking in your next stay, take a moment to check the hotel’s website—you may be stunned at what you find.
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